Your Heart's Desire

“…There is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day – and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8

It’s a fun moment – the camera is ready, the candles are lit, and the cake is set before you. “Make a wish!” someone exclaims as you take a deep breath and blow. What do you wish for? What do you want? What are the desires of your heart?

“…but also to all who have longed for His appearing.” A big desire of Paul’s heart was for Jesus to return. He said “our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 3:20) We’re so glad He came the first time. Jesus left heaven’s perfection to become our salvation. His death gave us life. His life gives us hope. Hope that the grave is not the end. Hope that one day suffering will cease, pain will be past, and sin will disappear.

As you puff out the candles on a birthday cake, isn’t that really what you wish for? That all will be well and that life for you or someone you love will be filled with blessing and free from trouble? The desire in us for “happily ever after” comes from God. He created us to live with Him without sin forever. He made it possible and He eagerly awaits the day it will be reality. As we go through these days in the “in between” let’s want what He wants.
Let’s love life and long for His return.

Who knows, it might just be today!



Time For A Little R&R

RECOGNIZE
What do you really wish for as you blow out the candles?

RESPOND
Spend a few moments thinking about Jesus’ return and let Him know you can hardly wait!